THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Thursday, September 1, 1994 TAG: 9409010010
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A20 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 29 lines
It's a mystery to me why our justice system, our politicians and this newspaper speak out loud and clear about the rights of criminals on death row.
It is rare that mention is ever made about the rights of the victim of the terrible crime committed by the criminal. Usually the public isn't told why the criminal is on death row.
Why don't the news media tell us about the victim and the impact of the crime on the loved ones left behind?
Once the criminal is found guilty beyond doubt, punishment should be swift and sure. Why a criminal is on death row for 12 to 15 years is beyond me.
It's time our system of justice and the news media directed attention to the victim and the loved ones affected by the crime instead of trying to influence the public that the criminal should not get the punishment he deserves.
JACK G. BOYD
Virginia Beach, Aug. 20, 1994 by CNB